Crimes committed by a youthful (under the age of 18) offender.  Most juvenile crimes do not include rape or murder.  Even if you are under the age of 18 when you commit that sort of felony, you may be charged as an adult.  In most cases, however, the fact that you are under the age of 18 means that you will be arraigned in Juvenile Court.  Sentences for a Juvenile Offense can be anywhere from a few months probation to incarceration in a Youthful Offender facility where the offender can be kept until the age of 21 in most states.  When the Juvenile reaches his or her majority at 21, their record is usually sealed and/or expunged. 

It is important that a parent or legal guardian be present before a Juvenile can be questioned.  It is also important that the parent exercise their child's legal right to council before anything is said during questioning.  Depending on the severity of the crime, even a Juvenile can be tried under adult status.  This makes it extremely important to maintain silence until a lawyer has been consulted.  Your lawyer can advise you what to answer and when to stay quiet.  Juvenile offenders have the same right to a lawyer as an adult, with the additional presence of a parent or legal adult guardian during any questioning.  Make sure to know your rights and exercise them accordingly.